Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in clothing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Choua Vang, co-founder of Cali & Dana, located in New York City, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Introducing Cali & Dana, designers of denim for curvy petite women 5'3" and under. Jeans, tops, and dresses are made specifically for curvy women with the latest on-trend styles to fill your wardrobe for this season's arrival. The signature Ruthie Jeans are named after RBG!
Jeans are a staple in any wardrobe. That's why this brand is resonating with many of today's women who have found a style that works for their body types. Many share the feeling, "Where have you been all of my life!"
The jeans are waist size-inclusive and made to last. Rigorously tested, the high-quality denim withstands wash after wash. The fabric is made from recycled plastic bottles. It is super stretchy for a comfortable, tailored fit (each high-rise jean uses material that recycles seven plastic bottles, while the mid-rise style features recycled polyester and zero virgin polyester). No more cuffing (unless that's your style) or hemming, and your jeans stay skinny without gapping. Priceless!
Tell us about yourself
We (Choua Vang, Ali Diallo, and Dana Hibbard-Herrera) share similar struggles with curvy petite women and have a passion for catering to this demographic. We came together to start a brand that represents a little bit of each of our diverse backgrounds. Choua is originally from Thailand and now handles brand management. Ali moved to the U.S. in 2005 and is proud of her African roots, staying involved in her community while managing the company's communications. Dana was adopted from South Korea and is the creative guru with over 15 years of fashion experience specializing in denim.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
The fact that we didn't give up and launched in the middle of the pandemic says a lot about our resilience and faith in a brand that is out to disrupt the industry.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
It is very difficult for us to find factories that will help small businesses that do not need thousands of pieces, especially brands in the denim space. We have been able to find a couple and are thankful for their partnership.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Don't give up. It's ok to take one step forward and two steps back.
- Listen to your customers' pain points and solve their problems.
- Get amazing partners on your team and allow each person to use their strengths to build the brand. We are so blessed to have each other.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://calindana.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/calianddana
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovecalindana/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.
